SL1 meets 430exii

So, I bought the 430EX ii after being told my SL1 had wireless capability, which unfortunately it does not. It's a great flash for $300, but not being able to use it for what it's made for, I'm questioning keeping it.

Thoughts, ideas? Is there a similar flash for less money that isn't wireless that will give me all the other options?

Depends on how you wanted to use the flash. If you were going to use it off-camera, and are prepared to set the power settings manually, then a pair of cheap radio triggers will do.

If you want e-TTL metering, and your "off-camera" distance was less than about 2 feet, then you can use a flash extension cable that will in effect "extend" the hot shoe functionality the length of the cable. Most extension cables are designed to be relatively short, connecting the camera with a flash that is mounted on a bracket.

Before buying the flash unit you could have easily verified what you were told about the SL1 having a wireless flash capability by reading your SL1 user manual.

But as pgriz points out, there are inexpensive 3rd party radio triggers and other 3rd party solutions that will work with the 430EX II.
I have experience with the manual only 460 II and 560 II Yongnuo flash units and they are worth their low cost.